The College of Business at Texas A&M University-Commerce is once again participating in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, a grant-funded initiative from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This program aims to simplify the tax filing process for Northeast Texas residents by providing free tax preparation services to underserved individuals through partner organizations.
A&M-Commerce, having offered VITA services in the past, is reentering the program and will be facilitating virtual tax filing assistance through the College of Business. The services will be free of charge, eliminating the need for residents to travel to the A&M-Commerce campus.
Professor Michael Opara, specializing in Accounting and Finance, emphasized the significance of offering these services to individuals who might face difficulties accessing them. He stated, "Together with our volunteer faculty and students, we are excited to support the College of Business in offering this important free service to our community here in Northeast Texas. This will enable our community members to further benefit from government services that would otherwise be inaccessible."
Scott Wheeler, the dean of the College of Business, expressed similar sentiments, noting the college's eagerness to serve area residents. "We are pleased that the College of Business at A&M-Commerce can leverage the expertise of our faculty and students to provide this direct and meaningful service to the citizens of Northeast Texas," Wheeler said. "We strive not just to teach but also to serve. A&M-Commerce will be the sole provider of VITA services in Northeast Texas, furthering our position as the leading higher education institution in the region."
The service period is scheduled to run from January 10 to July 25, 2024, open on weekdays. A&M-Commerce will provide tax filing assistance through the VITA program to the following eligible categories:
- Households with $60,000 annual income or less
- College/university students
- People with disabilities
- Limited English-speakers
- Senior citizens
For more information, including the steps to receive assistance and what documents to bring to your virtual session, visit the A&M-Commerce VITA Services webpage.